Description:
Lasiochloa adscendens (Schrad. ex Schult.) Kunth is a plant species belonging to the family Poaceae, commonly known as "ticklegrass". It is a warm-season perennial grass native to South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina. This creeping grass typically grows in open areas such as fields, meadows, and roadsides, from 500-2,500 m altitude.
General Appearance:
The plant has a deep, creeping root system and can spread rapidly via stolons and rhizomes. It can grow up to a height of 1.5 meters and has a tufted growth habit. The leaves are bluish-green, flat, and somewhat broad. The inflorescence is a panicle with erect or ascending branches bearing spikelets in groups of 2-3.
Common Names:
Lasiochloa adscendens is commonly known as "barba-de-boi" in Brazil, which means "oxen beard". It is also referred to as "escobilla", "acha", or "quesambillo" in other parts of South America.
Uses:
Lasiochloa adscendens has multiple uses. In Brazil, it is used as a forage grass for livestock. Its deep root system makes it drought-tolerant, and it can withstand moderate grazing. The plant also has medicinal properties and has been used to treat respiratory diseases, coughs, and sore throats by local communities in Brazil and Argentina. The roots and leaves of the plant are also used to make a tea. Additionally, Lasiochloa adscendens is used for soil conservation and can be grown as an ornamental plant in gardens.
hereLight Requirements
The Lasiochloa adscendens plant thrives in areas where they can receive plenty of sunlight. It is essential to ensure that these plants are not subjected to too much shade. If the environment is not providing enough natural light, it is recommended to use artificial light sources to supplement the plant's needs.
Temperature Requirements
The Lasiochloa adscendens plant grows best in warm conditions, and it cannot tolerate frost or extreme cold weather conditions. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20-30°C. These plants can grow in temperatures slightly below or above this range, but they may not mature or grow as effectively when subjected to extreme temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Lasiochloa adscendens plant requires soil that is nutrient-rich and well-draining. These plants do not thrive in waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot and limit their growth. It is also essential to maintain moist soil conditions, but not too wet. The soil pH should be between 5.5-6.5 for optimum growth, and if the soil is too acidic, it may be necessary to make adjustments through soil amendments.
Cultivation of Lasiochloa adscendens
Lasiochloa adscendens is a type of grass that is relatively easy to grow. It prefers to be planted in a sandy loam soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. The seeds should be sowed approximately 1/4 inch deep in the soil, and they will germinate within two to three weeks.
Watering Needs of Lasiochloa adscendens
During the initial growing period, Lasiochloa adscendens should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. After the leaves have grown, the plant can tolerate dryer soil. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. In areas with hot and dry climates, additional watering may be necessary.
Fertilization of Lasiochloa adscendens
Fertilization should be done in the spring and fall, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. If the plant is grown for forage, additional nitrogen may be necessary during the growing season to promote growth.
Pruning of Lasiochloa adscendens
Since Lasiochloa adscendens is a grass, it does not require traditional pruning. However, mowing or grazing may be necessary to control its height and promote healthy growth. Mowing should be done when the plant is approximately 8 to 12 inches tall, leaving a height of 3 to 4 inches. Grazing should be done when the plant is 12 to 18 inches tall, leaving a height of approximately 4 to 5 inches.
Propagation methods for Lasiochloa adscendens
Lasiochloa adscendens, commonly known as southern sandbur or western sandbur, is a warm-season, annual or perennial grass that can be propagated by seeds or vegetatively.
Seeds
The most common propagation method for Lasiochloa adscendens is by seeds. The plant produces seeds that can be collected once they have matured and are dry. The seeds can be sown immediately after collection or stored for future use. To increase germination rates, scarification of the seeds or soaking them in water for a few hours before sowing can be done. The best time to sow seeds is during the spring when the temperature is warm enough to allow for germination. Sowing depth should be about 1-2 cm, and spacing should be about 30 cm or more.
Vegetative Propagation
Lasiochloa adscendens can also be propagated by vegetative means. This method is best used for establishing new plants or for expanding existing ones. The plant has a vigorous root system and can produce several culms from a single node. The most effective way to propagate by vegetative means is by dividing the plant and taking stem cuttings. The cuttings can be planted in a suitable substrate and treated with a rooting hormone to enhance rooting. Another vegetative propagation method is via runners, which can be planted directly in the soil or in a suitable container.
Disease Management
Lasiochloa adscendens is susceptible to various diseases that can hinder its growth and development. The most common diseases that affect the plant include leaf spot, rust, and smut. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular or angular lesions on the leaves. Rust disease causes reddish-brown spots on the leaves and stems, while smut results in the formation of black powder on the plant's inflorescences and leaves. To manage these diseases, it is necessary to adopt several measures. These include:
- Using certified disease-free seeds
- Practicing crop rotation to reduce the buildup of pathogens in the soil
- Using fungicides to control fungal infections
- Removing and destroying infected plant parts to prevent further spread of the disease
Pest Management
Lasiochloa adscendens is also prone to pest attacks. The most common pests that affect the plant include grasshoppers, cutworms, and leafhoppers. Grasshoppers chew on the leaves and stems, while cutworms attack the plant's base. Leafhoppers suck sap from the leaves, resulting in stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage these pests, it is necessary to adopt the following measures:
- Using physical barriers to prevent pests from reaching the plant
- Introducing predator insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pest populations
- Using insecticides to control pest populations
- Practicing strict sanitation measures to eliminate breeding grounds for pests
